Air fryer lemon butter cod Easter dinner became my solution after I overbaked cod one holiday and it turned dry and bland. Cod is delicate, and just a couple of extra minutes can ruin it. After testing this three ways, foil-wrapped, open basket, and butter added before vs. after cooking, I found the perfect method. Brushing lightly with oil before cooking and finishing with warm lemon butter keeps the fish moist while delivering bold, bright flavor.
It’s light enough for spring yet elegant enough for Easter dinner.
Why This Air Fryer Lemon Butter Cod Easter Dinner Recipe Works
Cod is a lean white fish, which means it cooks quickly and can dry out easily. I discovered that 375°F (190°C) strikes the perfect balance—creating slightly golden edges while keeping the center flaky and tender.
Adding lemon butter after cooking prevents the butter from separating or burning in the air fryer. Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the flavor, while garlic and parsley add depth. Cooking to an internal temperature of 140–145°F (60–63°C) ensures perfectly flaky cod.
The result? Tender, buttery fish with fresh citrus notes.
Timing for Air Fryer Lemon Butter Cod Easter Dinner
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 12–15 minutes
Ingredients for Air Fryer Lemon Butter Cod Easter Dinner
Serves 2–3.
- 2 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Optional Garnish:
- Lemon slices
- Extra parsley
- Cracked black pepper
How to Make Lemon Butter Cod in the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels.
- Brush lightly with olive oil.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket or use perforated parchment.
- Place cod fillets in a single layer.
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness.
- Check internal temperature; it should reach 140–145°F (60–63°C). The fish should flake easily with a fork.
- While cod cooks, mix melted butter, lemon juice, zest, garlic, and parsley.
- Spoon lemon butter sauce over hot cod immediately after cooking.
- Garnish and serve warm.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Lemon Butter Cod Easter Dinner
- Don’t overcrowd: Air circulation ensures even cooking.
- Use fresh lemon: Enhances brightness.
- Add butter after cooking: Prevents burning.
- Check at 8 minutes: Cod thickness varies.
- Let rest 2 minutes: Helps juices settle.
- For crisp edges: Lightly spray top with oil before cooking.
Serving Ideas for Easter Dinner
- Pair with roasted asparagus or green beans.
- Serve over herbed rice or mashed potatoes.
- Add a light spring salad with vinaigrette.
- Include roasted baby carrots for a festive touch.
Storing and Reheating
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days.
Reheating: Air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 3–4 minutes until warmed through.
Freezing: Not recommended after cooking due to texture changes.
Conclusion
Air fryer lemon butter cod Easter dinner is simple, elegant, and packed with fresh flavor. The air fryer keeps the fish tender and flaky, while the lemon butter sauce adds richness without heaviness. It’s the perfect light yet satisfying holiday main.
